Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe

Name: Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs); 8 oz linguine pasta; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped; 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 3 garlic cloves, minced

Published: May 8, 2025

by Ezra

Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
Nourishing Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and enriched with carbohydrates from pasta, this dish provides a balanced meal

Ingredients for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
Linguine Pasta: Choose fresh or dried linguine; cook according to package instructions until al dente for the best texture
Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness while adding richness to the sauce
Fresh Herbs (Parsley & Chives): Fresh herbs will elevate the dish’s flavor profile; chop finely before adding them in

For the Sauce:

Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness while enhancing umami notes
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth and aroma; crush or mince them for maximum flavor release

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients and chopping any necessary vegetables or herbs. This ensures a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt two tablespoons of butter. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the skillet. Cook for about six minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Remove cooked chicken from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add remaining butter along with minced garlic. Sauté for about one minute until fragrant before adding soy sauce and stirring well.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return chicken to skillet along with cooked linguine. Toss everything together gently over low heat for about two minutes until well combined.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer to plates, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs on top, and drizzle with any extra sauce left in the skillet for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the chicken in soy sauce and garlic before cooking

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce a day in advance. Cook the chicken, then mix in the butter and spices. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Storing: Leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months.
Reheating: To reheat, place the linguine in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Suggestions for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine:

Avoid Overcooking the Pasta

One of the most common mistakes when preparing Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is overcooking the pasta. Cooking time varies by pasta type, but a general rule is to cook it al dente. This means the pasta should be firm when bitten but not hard. Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and loses its ability to hold onto sauces effectively. To prevent this, follow the package instructions closely and taste your pasta a minute or two before the recommended cooking time ends. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly after draining, so err on the side of caution.

Balance Flavors Carefully

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine relies heavily on its flavor profile, so it’s crucial to balance the ingredients correctly. Adding too much salt or spices can overpower the dish. Start by seasoning your chicken lightly before cooking; you can always add more later. Additionally, consider the richness of the butter sauce; adjust acidity with lemon juice or vinegar to cut through the fat and enhance flavors. A well-balanced dish will please palates and elevate your culinary experience.

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is vital for creating a delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. Fresh garlic, herbs, and quality chicken make a significant difference compared to pre-packaged or frozen alternatives. Fresh ingredients provide vibrant flavors and textures that dried or processed options cannot match. Make it a habit to visit local farmers’ markets or grocery stores specializing in fresh produce. Your dish will reflect this effort in its taste and presentation.

Prepare Ingredients Before Cooking

Preparation is key when making Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. Gather all your ingredients before starting to cook; this practice is known as “mise en place.” Chopping vegetables, measuring spices, and pre-cooking chicken can save time and prevent stress while cooking. It ensures everything is ready at hand when you need it, allowing for smoother transitions between steps in your recipe. This organized approach will help you focus on creating an exceptional dish without feeling rushed.

FAQs:

What is Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a delightful pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a rich butter sauce infused with bold flavors like garlic, herbs, and spices. The dish typically features linguine pasta tossed in this savory sauce, which gives it a creamy texture without being overly heavy. It’s an ideal choice for those who enjoy hearty meals that are easy to prepare yet packed with flavor. The unique blend of cowboy-style seasoning adds a rustic twist that sets this recipe apart from traditional Italian dishes. For more inspiration, check out this Easy Shrimp Alfredo Recipe recipe.

How do I store leftovers of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine?

Storing leftovers of Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine requires a few simple steps to maintain freshness and flavor. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container, which prevents moisture loss and preserves taste. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for longer storage—up to three months works well here too! When reheating, add a splash of water or extra butter to prevent drying out; this helps restore creaminess before serving again.

Can I substitute chicken with another protein?

Absolutely! You can easily customize Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine by substituting chicken with other proteins like shrimp, turkey, or even plant-based options such as tofu or tempeh. Each alternative brings its unique flavor profile to the dish while still complementing the rich buttery sauce. If using seafood like shrimp, adjust cooking time accordingly since they cook quickly compared to chicken. Enjoy experimenting with different proteins until you find your favorite combination!

Is Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine makes an excellent option for meal prep due to its versatility and ease of storage. Prepare a large batch at once and divide it into individual servings for convenient lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just remember not to mix in any fresh herbs until you’re ready to serve; this keeps their vibrant flavor intact! Reheating portions is quick—simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Conclusion for Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine:

In summary, mastering Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine involves avoiding common pitfalls like overcooking pasta and balancing flavors effectively using fresh ingredients. Preparation plays a significant role in ensuring seamless execution during cooking while allowing room for creativity with protein substitutions if desired. Quick Chicken Scallopini Storing leftovers properly opens up opportunities for quick meals later on without sacrificing taste! By following these suggestions along with our recipe tips, you’ll create an unforgettable dining experience that highlights rich flavors appealingly presented—perfect for any occasion!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card